Related Articles

Matehuala is a city in the state of San Luis Potosi in central Mexico. Sitting high in the mountains, it is within striking distance of the nearby cities of Saltillo, Zacatecas and Guadalupe. According to local legend, the name "Matehuala" comes from the Guachichil phrase meaning "don't come" and was adopted by Spanish invaders as the area's name. The city was founded around 1550, but was modernized in the 20th century, leaving few historical buildings or sites.

Buildings

Matehuala boasts several historical buildings, some of which still are unfinished. Although the Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception), opposite the Plaza del Rey, has been left uncompleted for more than 100 years, it stands on the site of an older place of worship, which was demolished in the early 20th century. The Casa de Los Portales in the Plaza de Armas is a remaining part of the original Hacienda Matehuala, the estate built by Spanish settlers during the 1700s.

Localities

As a crucial mining source from the 17th to 20th centuries, the area immediately around Matehuala also contains sites of historical interest. Accessible only through a mining tunnel, Real de Catorce is a quiet locality in the mountains to the west of Matehuala. Visitors can see the old mines as well as the "ghost town," containing ruins of old mills and warehouses. The Casa de Moneda in the town is famous for being the first place in Mexico where coins were produced. Villa La Paz, founded in the early 1700s, is northwest of Matehuala and also contains relics of the area's mining history.

Transport

Matehuala and its surrounding historical sites are around 155 miles from Saltillo and accessible by car or bus. The city has two bus stations: the Central de Autobuses on the Arco de Bienvenido to the south of the city, and the Terminal de Autobuses a Real de Catorce, in the center of town. There are several buses per day to Real de Catorce from the city and the trip takes around one hour. Within the city, visitors can get to historic sites on foot or by using a local taxi.

Accommodations

As Matehuala is in a relatively remote location, it is worth considering an extended stay to enjoy the city's historic sites. In the city's center, tourists can find many hostels that won't break the bank, but it is a good idea to check the cleanliness of the rooms before handing over any money. Hotel Blanca Estela is a popular lodging with good amenities, including a television in each room. Alternatively, you can choose one of Matehuala's more luxurious hotels, such as the Hotel del Parque. The Las Palmas Midway Inn has a restaurant, swimming pool and mini-golf course.